NABHS provides resources for dual diagnosis treatment that helps in addressing comorbid mental health or substance abuse disorders.
Dual Diagnosis Meaning
Dual diagnosis is also known as co-occurring condition where someone suffers from substance abuse disorder (with alcohol or drugs) and mental health condition at the same time. It is a type of co-morbidity that is extremely common and many with SUD might have a mental disorder or vice versa. Having both the diseases is common in teenagers ir even some adults.
Dual Diagnosis Examples
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2022, conducted by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), approximately 21.5 million adults in the United States have co-occurring disorder. This means that they have to face the challenge of dealing with a substance abuse disorder along with a mental illness.
Some common dual diagnosis include:
- Alcoholism and ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)
- Alcoholism and Depression.
- Opioid Addiction and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Meth Addiction and Psychosis.
- Prescription Drug Addiction and Anxiety.
- Benzodiazepines dependence and anxiety.
Dual Diagnosis Challenges
One of the biggest challenges in treating dual diagnosis is identifying both the mental health disorder and the substance abuse disorder. Often, people seek treatment for one issue and do not disclose the other. This can lead to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment, which can ultimately worsen both conditions.
Another challenge in treating dual diagnosis is the stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse disorders. Many find these conditions embarrassing and may be hesitant to seek help. This results in a delay in diagnosis and treatment, which can have serious consequences.
Despite these challenges, effective treatment for dual diagnosis is attainable. The most effective treatment approach is an integrated one, where both the mental health disorder and the substance abuse disorder are addressed at the same time. This can include a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment starts with a detoxification process which typically involves a few different steps. The first step is an evaluation, during which healthcare professionals assess the individual’s physical and mental health thoroughly and see for the severity of their substance abuse. Then, the detoxification process begins, which may involve medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures. This phase of the process generally lasts 3-7 days, depending on the severity of the individual’s condition. After detoxification is complete, the next step is a therapeutic treatment.
It takes more than detoxification to attain long-term healing. The therapeutic treatment strategy, which includes counseling and therapy as its next stage, can assist people in addressing the root causes of their addiction and in learning coping mechanisms to balance their mental health and sobriety.
Dual diagnosis is treated with a combination of therapies addressing both conditions at once. Here are some of the most common treatments options available:
- Integrated Treatment: This approach involves a combination of mental health and substance abuse treatments, delivered in an organized and comprehensive manner. It mostly consists of individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thoughts and attitudes toward life. It has been proven to have a positive effect on people getting treatment for both mental health and substance abuse disorders.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT involves the use of medications to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings that are brought on by substance use disorders. It can be used along with other therapies to help individuals calm down and manage both their mental health and substance abuse disorders at the same time.
- Peer Support Groups: Peer support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can immensely benefit the people with a sense of community and support as they work to direct their dual diagnosis.
- Holistic Therapies: Holistic therapies, such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture, can help individuals in ways that manage their mental health and substance abuse disorders by promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers
As challenging as it can be, the hunt for an ideal dual diagnosis treatment center when there are numerous concerns and doubts involved can be one monumental task.
If you are searching for dual diagnosis treatment near me or dual diagnosis inpatient treatment, then you have come to the right place! NABHS can help you guide to dual diagnosis treatment centers that will help you manage all your mental health challenges at one place.
For optimal safety and results, it is recommended that you seek treatment for dual diagnosis in a licensed inpatient or residential setting with a qualified medical team. The treatment plan will be developed by a full team of professionals, including a psychiatrist, therapist, counselor, and round-the-clock support staff.
To explore all of the options available and receive answers to all your queries, get in touch with us at +1 (917) 267 8635 for treatment recommendation and guidance to full recovery from a mental health facility close to you.
